What should crew members do upon discovering a gas leak in the engine room?

Upon discovering a gas leak in the engine room, the immediate priority for crew members is safety. Evacuating the engine room is a crucial first step because the presence of gas poses a significant risk of explosion or fire. By removing personnel from the hazardous area, the risk of injury or fatality is minimized.

Notifying the bridge is equally important as it ensures that the captain and other key personnel are aware of the situation. The information relayed can trigger emergency protocols, such as shutting down affected systems and possibly mobilizing fire-fighting teams. This coordinated response is essential for managing the emergency effectively.

Addressing the other options, while closing ventilation could be seen as a precautionary measure, it may not be the best immediate response. Attempting to fix the leak without proper training and equipment significantly increases the risk associated with a potentially volatile situation. Lastly, sealing the area and waiting for assistance does not actively mitigate the danger posed by the gas leak and does not prioritize the well-being of the crew. Therefore, urgent evacuation and immediate communication with the bridge are the most prudent actions to ensure safety and effective response.